Preparing to Evacuate
Evacuation notices are issued suddenly to inform you and your household of an imminent threat to safety from which you must flee or prepare to flee from. During B.C.’s 2023 forest fire season, 48,000 people were affected by evacuation orders, and another 137,000 by evacuation alerts.
Emergency services use specific terminology when issuing evacuation notices. It is important to know the difference between what each of these terms is asking of the recipient. Some common terminology used is:
01
Evacuation Alert
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03
Tactical Evacuation
Tactical evacuations are issued when a sudden threat to safety has been identified in your area by trusted Emergency Management Teams or decision-makers, requiring you to leave immediately.
02
Evacuation Order
Your safety is currently at risk and you should leave the area immediately. If you find yourself under Evacuation Order, follow these instructions.
04
Evacuation Rescinded
The risk to safety has now passed. You can gradually begin planning your return home.
What to expect at Reception Centres
In the event of an evacuation, some First Nations or local governments may open Reception Centres that are staffed with emergency volunteers and offer assistance during this time. Reception Centres are commonly located in schools or community centres.
At the reception centre, volunteers may assist with providing more information about the emergency, securing food and water for evacuees, registering with ESS and help reconnecting with family.
Reception centres are typically very busy and the intake process may take time. Dress for the weather if needed and be prepared to wait. If you have access to a mobile phone, you can register online with ESS to save time registering at the reception centre.
